Robotic Formwork in the MARS Pavilion: Towards The Creation Of Programmable Matter (2017)
article⁄Robotic Formwork in the MARS Pavilion: Towards The Creation Of Programmable Matter (2017)
abstract⁄The proliferation of parametric tools has allowed for the design of previously impossible geometry, but the construction industry has failed to keep pace. We demonstrate the use of industrial robots to disrupt the ancient process of casting concrete and create an adjustable formwork capable of generating various cast components based on digital input, crafting a new approach to ‘programmable matter.’ The resulting research delineates a novel methodology to facilitate otherwise costprohibitive, even impossible design. The MARS Pavilion employs this methodology in a buildingsized proof of concept where manipulating fabric with industrial robots achieves previously unattainable precision while casting numerous connective concrete components to form a demountable lattice structure. The pavilion is the result of parametric form finding, in which a catenary structure ensures that the loads are acting primarily in compression. Every concrete component is unique, yet can be assembled together with a 116inch tolerance. Expanding Culver Sarafian’s previous investigations, industrial robot arms are sent coordinates to position fabric sleeves into which concrete is poured, facilitating a rapid digitaltophysical casting process. With this fabrication method, parametric variation in design is costcompetitive relative to other iterative casting techniques. This digital breakthrough necessitated analogue material studies of rapidsetting, highstrength concrete and flexible, integral reinforcing systems. The uniquely shaped components are coupled with uniform connectors designed to attach three limbs of concrete, forming a highly stable, compressive hexgrid shell structure. A finite element analysis FEA was a critical step in the structural engineering process to simulate various load scenarios on the pavilion and drive the shape of the connective elements to their optimal form.
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| Year |
2017 |
| Authors |
Sarafian, Joseph; Culver, Ronald; Lewis, Trevor S. |
| Issue |
ACADIA 2017: DISCIPLINES & DISRUPTION |
| Pages |
522-533 |
| Library link |
N/A |
| Entry filename |
robotic-formwork-mars-pavilion |
